Morning Daily News Update: May 11, 2026 – Asuka Is Now Said To Be Semi-Retired

Good morning, everyone!

It’s Monday! And it’s time for the Morning Daily News Update!

We’ve also got a couple of new blog posts to take a look at:

Niz reviewed AAA from May 9
Maffew reviewed AJPW on Nippon TV from April 2000

Asuka Said To Be ‘Semi-Retired’ Following WWE Backlash

Asuka is reportedly “semi-retired” following her loss to Iyo Sky at WWE Backlash, according to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio. Meltzer stated people backstage were reportedly saying goodbye to Asuka, although it remains unclear what “semi-retired” means for her future or whether she plans to continue wrestling occasionally. The 44-year-old has been with WWE since 2015 and built one of the most decorated careers in the company’s women’s division, including multiple women’s title reigns, a Royal Rumble victory, and a Money in the Bank win.

Identity Of Danhausen’s Minihausen At WWE Backlash Revealed

El Torito was reportedly the original “Minihausen” during WWE Backlash. The reveal came after Danhausen debuted a “Minihausen Army” during his match against The Miz and Kit Wilson. According to PWInsider, the first Minihausen was played by El Torito, who previously worked for WWE from 2013 to 2016 and is best known for his WeeLC match against Hornswoggle at Extreme Rules 2014. He currently wrestles on the independent scene under the name Mascarita Sagrada.

Swerve Strickland Hopes New Day Joins AEW: ‘They Know Their Value’

Swerve Strickland says he hopes Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods eventually end up in AEW following their WWE departures, but stressed that the pair have earned the right to decide their own future. Speaking to TMZ, Strickland praised The New Day’s legacy and said they understand their own value after reportedly leaving WWE on May 2 rather than accepting pay cuts. Several AEW stars, including The Young Bucks, FTR, and MJF, have publicly expressed interest in working with the duo in AEW once their reported non-compete clauses expire.

Dawn Marie Addresses Potential In-Ring Return After 17 Years

Dawn Marie says fans should not expect her to wrestle again despite her surprise appearance during WWE NXT’s ECW Arena tribute show in 2024. Speaking to Going Ringside, the former WWE and ECW star said her in-ring career is “over” and explained that she is now focused on her life outside wrestling, including working as a nurse specialising in dementia care and running alternative healing and wellness businesses. Dawn Marie previously returned to WWE television in November 2024 as the special guest referee for the hardcore match between Lola Vice and Jaida Parker at the ECW tribute edition of NXT.